Sorbitan tristearate
Learn what Sorbitan tristearate (E492) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Sorbitan tristearate?
A semi-synthetic food additive, used as an emulsifier and stabilizer. It is used in fine bakery products, desserts, sugar-based confectionery, cocoa and chocolate products, glazes, jelly-type marmalades, creams, instant drink powders, baking yeast, dietary products, food ice, etc. This additive was not allowed in Romania until 2002, when it was introduced to align with European standards.
Why is Sorbitan tristearate added to food?
Sorbitan tristearate (E492) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Bakery products, desserts, sugar-based confectionery, cocoa and chocolate products, glazes, jelly-type marmalades, creams, instant drink powders, baking yeast, dietary products, food ice..
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 25 mg/kg body weight.
Is Sorbitan tristearate safe?
Moderate concern
High doses can cause gastric irritation. Adverse effects on the reproductive system have been observed in laboratory animals.
Is Sorbitan tristearate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sorbitan tristearate okay for kids?
Not permitted in food intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sorbitan tristearate
- Bakery products
- desserts
- sugar-based confectionery
- cocoa and chocolate products
- glazes
- jelly-type marmalades
- creams
- instant drink powders
- baking yeast
- dietary products
- food ice.
See the full list of foods that contain Sorbitan tristearate →
How to spot Sorbitan tristearate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E492
- Sorbitan tristearate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sorbitan tri$tearate
- $orbitan tristearate
- sorbltan tristearate
- sorbitan trlstearate
- sorbitan tristeardte
- sorbitdn tristearate
- sorbitan tristedrate
- sorbitan tristearate
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to esters or its components. • Avoid large quantities in individuals with liver or kidney conditions. • Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor. • May cause digestive disorders, such as bloating or diarrhea, when consumed excessively.
Also known as
- sorbitan tri$tearate
- $orbitan tristearate
- sorbltan tristearate
- sorbitan trlstearate
- sorbitan tristeardte
- sorbitdn tristearate
- sorbitan tristedrate
- sorbitan tristearate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sorbitan tristearate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E492 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sorbitan tristearate
- Is Sorbitan tristearate safe to eat?
- High doses can cause gastric irritation. Adverse effects on the reproductive system have been observed in laboratory animals.
- Is Sorbitan tristearate banned anywhere?
- Sorbitan tristearate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sorbitan tristearate safe for children?
- Not permitted in food intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sorbitan tristearate on a food label?
- Look for E492, Sorbitan tristearate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sorbitan tri$tearate, $orbitan tristearate, sorbltan tristearate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.